| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-06-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-01-01 | - |
| 2025-03-01 | - |
| 2025-06-01 | - |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
| 2026-01-01 | - |
| 2026-03-01 | - |
| 2026-06-01 | - |
| 2026-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
DePaul's Writing, Rhetoric, and Discourse (WRD) Master's program focuses exclusively on writing, offering a solid theoretical foundation paired with practical training. Students can choose to concentrate in Professional and Digital Writing or Teaching Writing and Language. The program provides opportunities for community involvement and teaching experience, preparing graduates for careers in writing, digital content production, education, and more.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
DePaul's master's program in Writing, Rhetoric, and Discourse is Chicago's only graduate program to focus solely on writing, rhetoric, pedagogy, and language. Students build a solid theoretical foundation in rhetoric and discourse, and pair it with hands-on practical training; faculty in the program seek to make you a better writer and teach you exciting new approaches to the history, craft, politics, and practical applications of writing and content. With the option to concentrate on Professional and Digital Writing or Teaching Writing and Language, you'll develop valuable skills for approaching writing and content production in a range of industries and careers.
Teaching:
Students have the opportunity to work with Chicago-area organizations through community-involved projects in courses like Grant and Proposal Writing, Urban Literacies, and Writing for the Web. You can also apply to teach your own section of DePaul’s first-year writing course as part of the Teaching Apprentice Program (TAP).
Careers:
With an MA in WRD, you can pursue professional goals such as:
- Writing for businesses, nonprofits, and tech companies
- Producing and managing digital content in organizations
- Working in an instructional design role at a university or other educational setting
- Teaching writing in a post-secondary institution
- Continuing the study of writing in a PhD program
- Building skills in language and composition instruction as a high school English teacher
Other:
- The MA in WRD is the only such program in Chicago with an embedded TESOL certificate and Teaching Apprenticeship Program
- Courses are offered on weekday evenings at the Lincoln Park Campus. The program can be completed in two years.
- Alumni of the Writing, Rhetoric and Discourse graduate program have found rewarding work in companies, nonprofit organizations, and colleges and universities in Chicago, nationwide and worldwide.
DePaul University
Overview:
DePaul University is a private Catholic university located in Chicago, Illinois. It is known for its strong academic programs, diverse student body, and commitment to community engagement. DePaul offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its 10 colleges and schools.
Services Offered:
DePaul University provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Resources:
Academic calendar, catalog, success programs, email, OneDePaul portal, Campus Connect, DePaul Central, Desire2Learn (D2L), and library.Campus Resources:
Campus security, bookstore, campus maps, and events calendar.University Resources:
Directory, athletics, employment opportunities, Sites A-Z, and technology help desk.Student Life and Campus Experience:
DePaul University offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students.
Student Organizations:
Students can participate in a wide variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities.Housing:
DePaul provides on-campus housing options for students, with a high percentage of freshmen living on campus.Campus Tours:
Virtual campus tours are available to explore the Lincoln Park and Loop campuses.Student Orientation:
Orientation programs are offered to help students transition to DePaul.Career Center:
The career center provides resources and support for students seeking internships and jobs.Athletics:
DePaul has a strong athletics program, with teams competing in NCAA Division I.Art Museum:
The university houses an art museum that showcases a diverse collection of art.Key Reasons to Study There:
Nationally Respected Programs:
DePaul is recognized for its high-quality academic programs, including its entrepreneurship program, which is ranked among the top 10 in the US.Diverse Student Body:
DePaul has a diverse student population, representing a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives.Chicago Location:
DePaul's location in Chicago provides students with access to a vibrant city with numerous cultural, educational, and professional opportunities.Community Engagement:
DePaul encourages students to engage in community service and make a positive impact on the city.Academic Programs:
DePaul University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate Programs:
Over 130 undergraduate majors across various disciplines.Graduate Programs:
Over 170 graduate programs, including master's and doctoral degrees.Online Degrees:
DePaul offers a variety of online degree programs for students seeking flexible learning options.Continuing Education:
DePaul provides continuing education programs for professionals seeking to enhance their skills.Other:
Alumni Network:
DePaul has a large and active alumni network with over 210,000 members.Internship Opportunities:
A significant percentage of DePaul students complete internships during their studies.Commitment to Anti-Discrimination:
DePaul is committed to providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, faculty, and staff.Entry Requirements:
Submit an online application, official transcripts, 500-word statement of purpose, current résumé, and 15 to 20 pages of your own written work.
